I was supremely fortunate to be able to take a National Geographic cruise around the Galapagos Islands (off the west coast of Ecuador). As you no doubt know, the animals Darwin found on these islands were instrumental in his formulation of the theory of evolution through natural selection.
This was my lovely cabin on the National Geographic Islander run by Lindblad Expeditions. So cozy. I miss it and the amazing food. Only trouble is I fell in love with Ecuadorian beer and cant find it in the US.
As we approached a small hill, we heard a strange call, and our naturalist became excited. "I have a treat for you," she said.
Twenty-two flamingoes marched by on their way to a lagoon for their breakfast. My brother-in-law got his camera out quickly and took this picture.
Here's the lovely countryside on Santa Cruz Island.
And one of the highlights of my trip...a chance to sit down with a Galapagos tortoise. The fields near the restaurant where we had lunch on Santa Cruz were full of these amazing creatures. I sat down with this one, and we looked at each other for about twenty minutes until it started to rain.
What a gorgeous animal. I miss him!
